Spinal Deformity

The spinal deformity program at Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush is comprised of board certified orthopedic specialists and registered orthopedic nurse specialists. Together, this team of leading experts effectively diagnose, evaluate, and treat patients with spinal deformities including scoliosis, spondylolisthesis, pediatric scoliosis, and pediatric spondylolisthesis.

Dr. Howard An, Dr. David Fardon and Dr. Christopher DeWald are among the best in the country to diagnose, evaluate, treat and monitor patients with scoliosis and spondylolisthesis. 

Scoliosis, a major type of spinal deformity, is a lateral curvature in the normally straight vertical line of the spine. The normal spine curves gently backward (kyphosis) in the upper back and gently inward in the lower back (lordosis). The management of scoliosis is individualized for each adolescent depending on his/her age, amount of curvature, and amount of time remaining for skeletal growth.

The diagnosis of pediatric scoliosis often requires frequent examinations by an orthopedic physician to monitor the condition as the child grows. Early detection is important.

If left untreated, scoliosis can cause problems with heart and lung function. Observation and repeated examinations may be necessary to determine if the spine is continuing to curve. Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush spinal deformity physicians are highly experienced in all treatment options including bracing and spinal surgery.

Spondylolisthesis, another spinal deformity, occurs when one vertebra slips forward in relation to an adjacent vertebra (usually in the lumbar spine). The symptoms that accompany a spondylolisthesis include pain in the low back, thighs, and/or legs, muscle spasms, weakness, and/or tight hamstring muscles. Some people are symptom free and find the disorder exists when revealed on an X-ray. In advanced cases, the patient may appear swayback with a protruding abdomen, exhibit a shortened torso and waddling gait.